Maligaon, March 18 (MExN): Indian Railways is undergoing an unprecedented phase of expansion and modernisation, backed by a record allocation of Rs 2.78 lakh crore in the Union Budget 2026–27, the Railway Minister said while replying to the discussion on Demands for Grants in Parliament on March 17.
He said the merger of the Railway Budget with the General Budget has driven transformational changes by boosting budgetary support, enabling year-round decision-making, and improving transparency through monitoring by the Ministry of Finance and NITI Aayog.
Despite high expenditure on staff, pensions, energy and finance, the Railways continues to maintain a modest surplus. Electrification has enhanced efficiency, saving around Rs 6,000 crore annually and reducing diesel dependence.
Freight loading has risen to about 1,650 million tonnes over the past decade, making Indian Railways the world’s second-largest freight carrier. Infrastructure growth has also accelerated, with around 35,000 km of new tracks laid and over 99 per cent electrification achieved.
Safety remains a priority, with accidents reduced by nearly 90 per cent due to sustained investments and reforms. Expansion of Road Over and Under Bridges and automatic signalling systems has improved operations, while the indigenous ‘Kavach’ train protection system is being deployed across thousands of kilometres.
The minister highlighted key connectivity projects, including a proposed 30-km underground corridor in the Siliguri corridor and capacity enhancement works along the India–Nepal border. In the Northeast, DPRs for new lines such as Lanka–Silchar and Dekargaon–Silghat are progressing, alongside works between New Jalpaiguri and Kamakhya. International rail links, including with Bhutan, are also being explored.
He said over 160 Vande Bharat and 60 Amrit Bharat trains are operational, while Dedicated Freight Corridors and tunnel projects have improved logistics and connectivity.
With over 25,000 trains running daily, the Railways continues to offer affordable travel. The minister said future growth will be driven by AI, digital platforms like RailOne, station redevelopment, PM Gati Shakti planning, and high-speed projects such as the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train, with state support crucial for timely execution.
